Kristine K. Narel

With profound sorrow, we announce the passing of Kristine K. Narel, known affectionately to many as Krissy, on December 16, 2024. Born on October 24, 1960, in Wisconsin Rapids, Wisconsin, Kris spent her entire life in her beloved hometown, where she was a pillar of warmth, compassion, and love. She graduated from Lincoln High School in 1978, where thereafter worked for Ore-Ida Foods (now known as McCain Foods) in Plover for several years, until in 1999, she earned her associates degree in Phlebotomy graduating with highest honors. Over the course of nearly 25 years, first starting as a phlebotomist at River Pines, then later moving to Saint Michael's Hospital in Stevens Point and then transitioning into adult and home health care, she dedicated her career to helping those in need, reflecting her innate kindness and empathy. Her love for her community extended far beyond her professional life, as she was an ardent sports fan, cheering on the Wisconsin Badgers and Green Bay Packers with unwavering enthusiasm.
Krissy was a woman of many passions and joys. An avid music lover, she cherished her annual trips to Summerfest and attending numerous concerts, especially those of Elton John and Lady Gaga. She always found peace in the solitude of her garden, and adventure in her younger years camping, snowmobiling, and playing golf. She was a frequent visitor to the beach at "The Point" off Lake Wazeecha, where she reveled in the beauty of nature, and watched her kids and close friends bask in the elegance of summer days. Krissy's love for online gaming brought her closer to her family and friends near and far, and her thirst for education always left her on her tablet reading and learning to her mind's delight. To quote Krissy, "I could make a career out of going to school, just to learn". She also enjoyed spending time with her close friends, reminiscing about her trips to Mexico and Puerto Rico, and taking every opportunity, she could to brag about her kids who she loved and cherished above all. Her sincere love for animals was palpable, and she was a devoted advocate for their needs, of whom Morris, the Christmas kitty was a true light of that advocacy. Venturing to the Happy Holiday Tree Farm in Kellner, only thinking she would leave with just a Christmas Tree, came with it, what would become a member of her family for many years to come. Krissy always held a special place in her heart for the Holidays. While she always had the last say in which Christmas tree came home, and how each ornament and set of lights got placed, the serenity it gave her, could be felt from miles away, as Trans-Siberian Orchestra and Charlie Brown Christmas songs could be heard throughout the house. Every present she wrapped was precise and perfect, and you didn't dare think about throwing a ribbon or bow away, because you'd get the famous "Look of Krissy". She always knew what was in every box, and every present had to be opened in a specific order and no matter how much you asked, In her house, Krissy always played Santa. Through her countless hours of shopping, decorating, wrapping, and coordinating, nothing ever gave Krissy more peace and joy, than having her family together for the Holidays. Her traditions will live on for years to come, especially her joy of decorating that her son proudly carries forward at his cabin in the Northwoods.
Kristine was a beacon of love and strength to her family. She is survived by her partner of 20 years, Jon Gust; son, Mason Narel; daughter, Marah Narel and her fiancé Brandon Burdick; brother, Robert Jacobson; sisters, Mary (Mike) Nettleton and Lois (Mark) Pennow; forever sister-in-law, Vicki Jacobson; granddaughter, Peyton Burdick; her grand dog, Blue; and her cat, Loki. She is also survived by many nieces, nephews, cousins, grandnieces, grandnephews, and her closest friends Tammy Jo Haske - Ginter (Harold Ginter), Cheryl (Al) Clark, Tami Kryzkowski (daughter Hailey Helms), Marcie Brown, and Bethany (Aaron) Polchowski and their son Ben. She was preceded in death by her parents, Floyd and Arda Jacobson, and her cherished cats Morris and Raja, and dog Hannah.
UPDATE: A Celebration of Krissy's life will be held on Saturday, February 1, 2025, at Ryders Roadhouse 9031 Couty Road WW, Wisconsin Rapids starting at 1:00 p.m. her family extends an open invitation for any and all to join in celebrating her life and legacy at that time.
In lieu of flowers, the family encourages donations to be made, honoring her life of animal advocacy, to the South Wood County Humane Society.
Krissy's life was a testament to joy, love, and resilience, and her spirit will continue to inspire all who knew her. She will be greatly missed and forever loved by many. While she will hold a special place in the hearts of many, those who knew her well, know that her next adventure lies beyond the yellow brick road. As we take time to remember and honor a person who lived each day like there was no other, we invite those who knew and loved Krissy to share their memories and photos on her memorial page, celebrating a life beautifully lived and deeply cherished.